I rise in vehement opposition to H.R. 1664. the Kosovo Supplemental Appropriations for FY 1999. More than half of this bills $13 billion appropriation is being used for funds that will eventually come from the budget surplus. and only illustrates the collective cowardice of the majority in refusing to consider these military construction projects under normal budgetary procedures In essence. this bill gives to the military and takes from Social Security and Medicare. What is worse is that the doubling of the increase of this bill. from President Clintons original request for $6 billion to $13 billion. has not seen a resulting increase in aid to the refugees or in humanitarian aid. ostensibly a key part of this bills original purpose. As one of the newest members on the House Appropriations Committee. I know that Appropriations are about three things: what you need. what you want. and what youd like to have This bill was half of what we need. some of what members want. and no increase in what the refugees would like to have. In order to accurately discuss this vote. we must first place these issues into context. After the breakdown of peace talks between Serbian and Kosovar representatives in Rambouillet.
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refugees